Faces in the crowd: WNC crowdfunding initiatives

Crowdfunding platforms make it possible for individuals and organizations of any size to harness social networks and raise start-up capital for projects that might otherwise fail due to lack of funding. Each week, Xpress highlights notable Western North Carolina crowdsourcing initiatives that may inspire readers to become new faces in the crowd.

SAVAGE KINGDOMS

Savage Kingdoms is a “heroic sword and sorcery role playing game set in a unique and gritty Dark Ages-era world,” according to the game’s Facebook page. Mike Yow, the table top game’s Asheville-based creator, previously funded a core rulebook to accompany Savage Kingdoms as well as a bestiary guide, which elucidates the unique creatures that are featured throughout the game. Yow’s current campaign, the Savage East book, would add the continents of Hassan and Emanju to the fantasy setting and “introduce more cultures, a couple more nonhuman races, and some more talents and other options for characters,” says Yow, who aims to raise $1,200 by Oct. 27.

TWIST FIBER STUDIO

Ashley Eskew “developed a passion for dying and all things fiber” in recent years, and with the help of AB-Tech’s business incubator, the full-time student now hopes to “take the leap,” turning her hobby into a unique hand-dyed yarn and spinning fibers business. Planning and funding the studio launch will require more than just knits, purls and yarn overs though, especially since wholesalers require large minimum order quantities. The new entrepreneur has already exceeded her initial $5,000 goal (which will cover a modest order from her suppliers and Kickstarter reward fulfillment), and additional funds raised by Oct. 31 will enable Eskew to expand her product line and dying capacity.

Send your crowdsourcing campaign news to kmcreynolds@mountainx.com. A limited number of campaigns will be highlighted each week, at Xpress’ discretion. Campaigns must be locally based and should represent a current project with an achievable goal. Conditions are subject to change.

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